BRICS calls for UN reforms, de-escalation in ME

KABUL (Pajhwok): The 16^th BRICS summit in Russia has called for sweeping reform at the United Nations, including its Security Council, to make the world body more democratic and effective.

In a 43-page Kazan Declaration adopted on Wednesday, they underlined the need for strengthening the bloc and a resolution of the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

According to Russia’s TASS news agency, the association vehemently denounced politically motivated unilateral sanctions that undermined the development other countries.

The participants reaffirmed their commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomacy, mediation, inclusive dialogue and consultations.

The BRICS members voiced concern over the escalation in the Middle East, including Israeli attacks, including the one on the Iranian embassy in Damascus and condemned pager blasts in Lebanon.

They supported the establishment of a sovereign state of Palestine within the internationally recognised 1967 borders and its admission to the UN.

While noting with satisfaction proposals to end the Ukrainian war, the BRICS leaders also outlined their positions on the issue.

The summiteers also underlined the revival of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran's nuclear programme, an initiative opposed by the US.

PAN Monitor/mud